encouragement

[en-kur-ij-muhnt, -kuhr-]

noun

1. the act of encouraging.

2. the state of being encouraged.

3. something that encourages.

   Praise is the greatest encouragement.

   Synonyms: endorsement, lift, boost, support, praise

Other Word Forms

• preencouragement noun
• reencouragement noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of encouragement¹

First recorded in 1560–70; encourage + -ment

Example Sentences

Reflecting on her Strictly journey so far, Carney said she had been touched by the "kind words and encouragement" from viewers.

Read more on BBC

But that dream was so strong, and I had the blessing and encouragement from them.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

One of them presented a gift he had put together with help from Negrete’s entire social circle — a video with loved ones sharing messages of encouragement.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Fans on their feet and offering all the encouragement they could muster.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

But the encouragement, delivered in a peppy, upbeat cadence, never stopped.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• assistance 
• backing 
• cheer 
• comfort 
• confidence 
• consolation 
• faith 
• fortitude 
• incentive 
• inspiration 
• optimism 
• reassurance 
• relief 
• reward 
• stimulation 
• stimulus